Sound modification system

Abstract

A sound modification system for a musical drum comprising a drumshell, a drumhead with an inner surface and a playing surface, and one or more mounting members adapted to be mounted to the drumhead. Each mounting member includes a first coupling member, which is fixed to the drumhead and projects outwardly from the playing surface, and a second coupling member matable to said first coupling member. Also provided is a sound altering element, which is adapted to removably engage the playing surface of the drumhead and has means cooperable with the matable first and second coupling members to form a detachable connection between the sound altering element and the drumhead. The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a sound altering means in a hoop-like or ring configuration having a plurality of openings formed at regular intervals therein and means inserted through each of the openings to snap-fasten the sound altering means to the playing surface of the drumhead.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of musical instruments. More particularly, the invention is directed to an improved system for reducing or enhancing certain sound characteristics of a drumhead. [0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0004] Devices used for modifying the sound characteristics of drums and drumheads are well known in the prior art. Simple items, such as, for example, a simple piece of tape, patches, felt strips and a variety of Velcro® backed items have been used for this purpose. By placing a piece of tape, a patch, or the like, at some location on the drumhead, one can enhance or reduce the effect or intensity of the drum sounds, to achieve a particular objective. For example, a thin piece of tape can damper or “cut short” the sound produced by the head once it is struck. The heavier or more dense the item is that is placed on the head, the greater its dampening potential. [0005...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an improved sound modification system for a musical drum that acts to reduce and enhance certain sound frequencies and characteristics.

[0013] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an improved sound modification system for a musical drum that acts to adjust the loudness of the drum sounds.

[0014] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an improved sound modification system for a musical drum that acts to reduce or enhance the decay characteristics in the drumhead.

Problems solved by technology

The heavier or more dense the item is that is placed on the head, the greater its dampening potential.

The disadvantage of this system is the need for the intrusive mounting fixture to maintain the dampening ring in close proximity to the batterhead.

Another disadvantage is the limited capabilities of the system, which realistically can accommodate only a single dampening ring, and no additional dampening devices, to accomplish its objectives.

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